Yesterday, with the division leading Bethlehem Eagles coming in the girls had an opportunity to prove to the rest of Suburban Council Mohonasen is a force to reckon with in 2012.

While the Lady Warriors came up short on the scoreboard, their ability to keep the game close and competitive showed they are a truly talented bunch.

In the first half, the Eagles were consistently putting pressure on the Mohonasen back line and created a number of scoring opportunities. After one Bethlehem goal was waved off because the finisher was caught off sides, the Eagles were able to capitalize later in the half on a chance produced off a corner kick.

Elle Lutz found Abby Seymour on the cross which Seymour put away with a header. Although, the Eagles had several other looks at the goal in the half the Warriors’ defense coupled with some solid saves by EIGHTH GRADE goalkeeper Saeeda Abdul-Aziz held Bethlehem to just the one goal.

After an opening forty-five minutes of somewhat passive play by their forwards, the Warriors’ turned up the offensive intensity in the second half. With help from a solid midfield, led by senior captain Morgan Miller, the Warriors saw their first look on frame when senior Serena Cascarano connected on a solid strike from several yards out.

Although the chance was stopped by the Bethlehem keeper, Katie Nickles, Mohonasen had made their presence known in the Bethlehem zone.

The second stage of the game would come and go without a goal, but both sides played impressive soccer. The Warriors (2-4-1), on paper, were massive underdogs versus the Eagles (6-2), yet the skill and determination they showed throughout the contest speaks volumes to the potential they have to do something special this season.

With a number of games left and sectionals as a strong possibility, the Lady Warriors can look forward knowing their result against Bethlehem has gained them legitimacy in their league and recognition as a serious contender in Class A.